The standards for guide-type fall arrestors used in personal protective equipment have been updated with EN 353-2:2024. This standard covers all aspects of guide-type fall arrestors used with flexible anchor lines, such as design, test methods, marking, manufacturer’s instructions and packaging. The system aims to improve the reliability of fall protection equipment and ensure the safety of users.
Guide-type fall arrestors provide a safety net for people working at height who are at risk of falling. Connected to a flexible anchor line, it locks automatically during a fall, ensuring the safety of the user. EN 353-2:2024 contains specific requirements and test methods for the use of this equipment in vertical, inclined and horizontal applications. Especially in horizontal applications, the anchor point can be placed at user level, making it easier to adapt the equipment to different working conditions.
This standard forms part of the fall arrest systems specified in EN 363:2018, while other fall arrest types are covered in EN 353-1:2014+A1:2017 and EN 360:2023. The new regulations introduce higher safety standards in critical areas such as corrosion resistance, dynamic performance and durability testing. Performance tests in wet and cold conditions are among the important innovations that were not available in previous versions.
EN 353-2:2024 will be implemented in all member states by March 2025. This standard will provide safer and more effective protection for workers at height, while guiding manufacturers to produce more robust and reliable equipment. These changes are seen as an important step towards both preventing occupational accidents and raising occupational health and safety standards. You can access the EN 353-2 Standard here.
